Namibian President Hage Geingob Passes Away at 82 

Namibia mourns the loss of President Hage Geingob, who succumbed to illness at the age of 82 on Sunday. Geingob, a prominent figure in the nation’s liberation struggle and a key architect of its constitution, passed away at Lady Pohamba Hospital in Windhoek, surrounded by his family.

Acting President Nangolo Mbumba conveyed the nation’s grief, describing Geingob as a distinguished servant, a liberation icon, and a fundamental figure in Namibian history. The late president had recently commenced treatment for cancer after the discovery of cancerous cells during a routine medical examination.

While details of Geingob’s diagnosis and prognosis were not disclosed, he continued his presidential duties throughout the treatment period. Despite seeking medical care in the United States and returning to Namibia on February 2, Geingob’s health declined.

Geingob, who served as prime minister for 12 years, faced health challenges even before assuming the presidency in 2014. In 2013, he underwent brain surgery, and the following year, he disclosed his survival of prostate cancer. Last year, Geingob announced he had undergone aortic surgery in South Africa.

Namibia, a former German colony gaining independence from South Africa in 1990, is preparing for presidential and parliamentary elections scheduled for November. Geingob, ineligible for reelection due to constitutional limits, leaves a legacy that paved the way for Nandi-Ndaitwah, the ruling SWAPO Party’s presidential candidate, who could become Namibia’s first female head of state.

The nation awaits further announcements regarding state arrangements and protocols as they bid farewell to a leader integral to their history and development.